This week we introduce Isaiah 56—66, the final section of the book, which some call 3rd Isaiah. As we move from 55 to 56 the audience shifts from the Jews in Babylonian exile to the Jews who have returned to their homeland. After the glorious promises from the prophets about what it will be like when God brings them home, they struggle with disappointment in God because their experience is so different from their expectations.
This experience, that we now describe with the phrase “Already, but Not Yet,” is a common challenge for God’s people throughout history. 3rd Isaiah was written to a people struggling with how to live in such a time.
Links from Class:
- Video presented in class: Casting Crowns — Christmas Bells
- slides from week 17